Our gallant soldiers reacted swiftly to protect their camp; to protect their peace and stability that they are in Somalia to secure; and to protect our country from its enemies and their sympathisers.

Regrettably, some of our patriots in uniform paid the ultimate price. It is heart-breaking.

I want to take this opportunity to express mine and the country’s deepest sympathy to the families and loved ones of the fallen. I stand with you. Our country stands with you. We deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by your loved ones in defence of our democracy, our peace and our security.

I will keep the families in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time, and I ask Kenyans to pray with me.We will not be cowed by these cowards. With our allies, we will continue in Somalia to fulfil our mission. We will hunt down the criminals involved in today’s events. Our soldiers’ blood will not be shed in vain.

Uhuru Kenyatta CGH,President of the Republic of Kenya andCommander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.